A Safe Reflection

The quiet grew heavier, so I crept past the edge of the paper sheet. Nearby, an overturned ceramic teacup formed a hollow, shaded arch. I paused, testing the dark rim with one boot before tucking myself inside. The smooth white interior caught a sliver of distant room light, casting a calm, curved glow. Resting my back against the cool porcelain, I found a clean glass marble trapped in the dip. When I nudged it, subtle swirling lines inside shifted into miniature spirals... repeating endlessly. It didn't spin fast or make noise. It just held still with me.